As we close out May and move into June, several high-volume items are still working through supply gaps. Some markets are getting help from lighter school demand, but weather, disease pressure and seasonal transitions continue to limit availability on key commodities. The biggest areas to watch this week are lettuce, lemons, potatoes and avocados.

EV Produce International, a specialist in year-round, high-quality Mexican limes and chayote, has launched a new brand called FAMILIME to coincide with its peak lime availability from May to July and its connection to family. Packs are now available in supermarkets nationwide.

Aimed at helping its products stand out in retail produce departments, the FAMILIME brand is inviting, bold and fun, boasting distinctive colorful pink packaging. 

The New England Produce Council hosted a successful TopGolf networking event Wednesday, May 13, sponsored by Grimmway Farms, Suja, Taylor Farms/Earthbound, Bard Valley and Marzetti.

The IFPA Women’s Fresh Perspectives Pacific Northwest Regional Conference brought together women from across the fresh produce and agriculture industries for a day focused on leadership, connection and community building. 

“The passion in the room was incredible, and it was inspiring to watch women from across agriculture and fresh produce come together to learn, connect and support one another,” said Catherine Gipe-Stewart of Superfresh Growers. 

Started in 1984, New Jersey Department of Agriculture’s Jersey Fresh program is the longest-running state agricultural marketing and quality grading program in the country.

BJ’s Wholesale Club announced its next wave of new club growth with locations in Kentucky, Florida and Indiana set to open this fiscal year. The new clubs are part of the company’s ongoing strategy to open 25-30 new clubs every two years.

The new clubs will be located in Frankfort, KY; Ocala, Lecanto and Port St. Lucie, FL; and Portage, IN.

This expansion strengthens BJ’s presence in the Florida market up to 46 clubs and grows BJ’s footprint in the recently launched Kentucky and Indiana markets.